If you are like me, you thought office machine and equipment were interchangeable categories. After all, they are both tools and complete office tasks, right? Although this is true, there are some differences that help to understand how to classify each one so that you know how to search for them when your business needs them.
What are office machines?
The Cambridge Dictionary defines office machinery as the equipment used in an office; for example: phones, computers, and printers. One of the fastest growing sectors of office machinery is in the electrical and optical equipment market. These markets cover computers and other machines for workplaces. Unfortunately, this definition only reinforces the idea that office machines and equipment are the same thing.
The Difference Between Office Machines/Equipment is Subtle…
From a mechanical standpoint, equipment has a much wider definition and is often required to create something (such as a machine). Machines are the completed product. In other words, machines are byproducts of the equipment used to create them, but they are not often needed in the same environment.
For instance, you most likely would not need the equipment in your office that helped constructmultifunction copiers and printersor other business office machinesunless you did significant copier repair work as part of your business.
To help understand how each are categorized, you must think of it in two ways:Office machines are a system of moving parts that can complete a task, although it usually needs some form of human guidance.
Machines also require a power source to operate them. Office equipment is the set of tools used by an employee to complete a task and is typically not powered by anything electric (though they can be).
The chart below illustrates examples of office machines and equipment:
| Office Machines | Office Equipment |
| Computer | Filing Cabinet |
| Phone | Pen |
| Copier | Stapler |
| Fax | Desk |
All Squares are Rectangles
As you can see, there is a subtle difference in the classifications, but the chart above shows a clear distinction between the two. Keep in mind that all machines can be classified as equipment, but not all equipment can be classified as a machine.
Many companies selling office products use these names interchangeably, and although you ultimately find what you are looking for, knowing the difference may save you some time during your search.
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Posted byBernie Schom
Bernie Schom is the Vice President of Sales at Standard Office Systems and has been in the copier and printer industry for over three decades.
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FAQs
Machines also require a power source to operate them. Office equipment is the set of tools used by an employee to complete a task and is typically not powered by anything electric (though they can be).
What is the difference between machines and equipments? ›
Machinery refers to large, often complex machines or systems used for specific tasks in industries like manufacturing, construction, or agriculture. Equipment, however, typically includes smaller tools or devices that aid in the operation of machinery or are used for specific tasks.
What is the difference between office supply and office equipment? ›
Business equipment is tangible property used in a business. Equipment is considered more permanent and longer lasting than supplies, which are used up quickly. Equipment includes machinery, furniture, fixtures, vehicles, computers, electronic devices, and office machines.
What is the importance of equipment and machines in an office? ›
Office equipment helps in managing office-related work and makes your day to day tasks run smoothly. Office equipment is usually overlooked, but essential. The right and necessary equipment should be available for every employee so they can work productively and efficiently.
What is the difference between a machine and a device? ›
Device - a thing made or adapted for a particular purpose, especially a piece of mechanical or electronic equipment. Machine - an apparatus using or applying mechanical power and having several parts, each with a definite function and together performing a particular task.
What is in office equipment? ›
Office Equipment consists of computers, fax machines, copiers, and other equipment commonly found in an office. The value of these assets is listed on the balance sheet under “Plant, Property, and Equipment”.
What is considered an equipment? ›
Equipment is a tangible long-term asset that benefits a business over several years of use. Computers, trucks and manufacturing machinery are all examples of equipment. They are tangible because they have a physical form—unlike intangible assets (such as patents, trademarks or copyrights) that do not.
What is equipment and machinery in business? ›
Equipment and machinery (sometimes they are kept in separate accounts) are those major tools and implements used in the operation of the business. For a service company, these can include computers, copiers, telephone systems, and any electronic gear.
What is the difference between plant and machinery and office equipment? ›
Plant machinery is primarily designed for heavy-duty and specialized industrial operations. It is specifically tailored to perform complex tasks involved in manufacturing, processing, and construction. Equipment, on the other hand, serves a more general purpose, catering to a wide array of industries and tasks.
What is classed as office equipment? ›
OFFICE EQUIPMENT / FURNITURE (Fixed Asset)
Examples include computers, major software programs like Photoshop, desks, printers, etc. These are all individual fixed assets that cannot be 100% expensed in the year they were bought. Ask your accountant at the end of the year how these should be expensed.
In general, chairs come under the category of office furniture and equipment. This is because chairs are generally used in an office setting and are considered part of the necessary furniture and equipment for that setting.
What is the difference between office machine and office equipment? ›
Office equipment is materials or articles needed in in an office for the performance of office duties. Examples are filing cabinets, manifold, cash box, file tray, telephone, handset, stapler, punch etc. Office machine are sets of automated devices that are used to perform different jobs in the office.
What are the five disadvantages of office equipment? ›
Disadvantages of office equipment:
- Expensive machinery: One of the worst points about having office machines is that the costs of machines are quite expensive. ...
- Can break down any minute: ...
- Makes people lazy:Experts have suggested that office machines also tend to reduce productivity. ...
- Fewer jobs for people:
Top 10 Essential Office Equipment
- Desk, Chairs, and Other Essential Furniture. ...
- Proper Lighting. ...
- Telephone. ...
- Computer. ...
- A Quality Internet Connection. ...
- Printer. ...
- Power Point Projector. ...
- Power Backup.
Equipment and machinery (sometimes they are kept in separate accounts) are those major tools and implements used in the operation of the business. For a service company, these can include computers, copiers, telephone systems, and any electronic gear.
Is computer equipment an office equipment? ›
Some of the most common examples of office equipment are computers, furniture, copiers, fax machines, printers, etc.
